Resurrection Hope: A New Beginning for Unity

Ephesians 2:14-16 and 4:1-6

1. Christ, our peace, has dismantled divides and created a new humanity in Him

2. The blueprint for unity– living out our calling in Christ

   A. Attitudes to embody and the theological underpinning for bridging the divides.

"As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." Ephesians 4:1-6

B. Actions grounded in the love and humility of Christ:

1. 1. Reflect on the divisions Christ has overcome in your own life and commit to being an agent of His peace.
   2. Pray for unity.
   3. Engage in active listening.
   4. Build bridges through service.
   5. Foster dialogue and peacemaking.
   6. Celebrate diversity within unity.

Take Action!

Revelation 7:9

1. Reflect on the divides within your own life and community. What are the sources of these divisions? How do they affect you and those around you?

2. Commit to understanding those with whom you disagree. This doesn’t mean compromising your beliefs but striving to listen and understand where others are coming from.

3. Share the story of the Resurrection with someone who may be struggling with division or separation. Offer it as a source of hope and reconciliation.

4. Identify one area in your life where you can apply this blueprint more faithfully. Take tangible steps to embody the attitudes described in the passage as a reflection of your commitment to unity in the Spirit.

5. Who do you need to share this message with this week?